Security Musings

With the games starting finally, security definitely is a big issue and the Chinese are very committed to nothing making them lose "face".

Security is really tight.

Normally, we all go through "mag and bag" security going in and out of all the buildings and housing. They're pretty aggressive about searching bags and if they find any food or beverage products, they'll typically make you take a bite/sip in front of them to prove it's legit. Pressurized canisters like the spray sunblock I brought are no-no's. They even denied a co-worker the ability to bring a bottle of wine back to his hotel room adjacent to the Main Press Center (though they were happy to let him bring it into the Media Housing village (good for me because I got some free wine, but obviously we don't "rate" as high security-wise.

They're locking down the Olympic Green and the surrounding area for the Opening Ceremonies (sounds like they're giving 300 journalists special credentials that'll allow them to move around more, so my chances of walking around outside tonight might be slim). Potential protesters/dissidents have been shipped out of town or denied/had their Visas revoked. Cameras are everywhere, the military and police are noticeably present and they're even completely shutting down the airport during the Opening Ceremonies.

Found this cool article on Slate.com related to security.